Oslo, Norway – A joint press release was issued following talks between Vietnamese Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. Vice President Xuan’s official visit to Norway, from November 23-25, came at the invitation of Prime Minister Store and signals a mutual intent to bolster long-standing friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two nations.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the discussions focused on reinforcing political ties through high-level visits and strengthening bilateral cooperation mechanisms. Both leaders explored the potential for strategic cooperation in green energy transition and sustainable maritime economy. They expressed eagerness to accelerate negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), aiming to enhance trade and investment connections.

The leaders also highlighted the significance of collaboration within the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) framework. They showed interest in partnering in areas such as fisheries, education, culture, science and technology, child protection, gender equality, and national defence and security. They recognized the Vietnamese community’s role as a bridge fostering friendship and cooperation between the peoples of the two countries.

On global and regional matters, both sides supported resolving disputes through peaceful means and in line with universally accepted principles of international law, including the UN Charter. They concurred on the content of the visa exemption agreement for holders of Vietnamese and Norwegian diplomatic passports and committed to signing this agreement soon.

The joint press release concluded with an acknowledgment of the significant advancements in bilateral relations in recent years. Both leaders expressed their desire to further strengthen and expand this relationship, viewing the outcomes of the visit as crucial in enhancing the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Norway.